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Variable Squirrel (Callosciurus finlaysoni)

 

An extremely cute squirrel - but it is quite destructive to the trees - strips off the bark from the trees... :(

 

Pic with nut in his paws... :)

 

More facts / info on the Variable Squirrel in Singapore (Source: Adapted from Wildlife Singapore):

 

Status: Introduced

Interesting Facts: The Variable Squirrel or Finlayson's squirrel is native to Burma, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and South Vietnam. However, in recent years, several were spotted in the wild in Singapore - most notably in Bidadari. Possibly, escapees or released by irresponsible pet owners - have heard that the initial few were previously pets in the Seven Day Adventist Hospital which used to be opposite Bidadari which moved out years ago.

The Variable Squirrel may look adorable but it may become a threat to our local flora and fauna.

In Italy, two pairs of the Variable Squirrel were released in a park in the 1980s. Today, about fifty Variable Squirrels were reported in the original release area. Variable Squirrels are known to strip off tree barks, causing damages to the trees.

 

In Great Britain, the introduction of Grey Squirrel has caused a progressive disappearance of the native Red Squirrel. Will the Variable Squirrel here threaten our native Slender Squirrels and Plantain Squirrels in future?

 

Size: Body 21cm, tail 22-24cm

Diet: Consists of fruits and seeds, flowers

Activity: Active during day

 

Note: We've observed the Variable Squirrel in Bidadari strip off the bark of trees... :(

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